Namibia > Wildlife spotting

Today we are finally going to see real wildlife in Etosha Park. We get up extra early to spot animals at the waterhole at sunrise. By six o’clock, we are ready with coffee and blankets. Unfortunately, the early hour does not guarantee success. The large animals do not appear. The sun slowly rises and illuminates the park. Apart from various birds and white herons, nothing else comes by.

Namibia - Zebras drinking at the Halali waterhole

After breakfast, we break down the tents and head out in search of real wildlife. This proves to be much more successful. Within a few hundred meters, we see several groups of springboks, gemsboks, and wildebeests. At a spot where several cars are stopped, we just catch sight of a lion’s head. According to Thomas, he is probably mating. Further along, we encounter an elephant in the trees and many smaller animals. At a toilet stop, we discover a young barn owl in the men’s restroom. It has probably fallen from its nest, and the poor creature has little chance of survival. We continue by bus toward the Etosha Pan, an expansive salt flat in a dried-up lake. As far as the eye can see, it is white salt and sand. At the Halali campsite, we take time for lunch.

Namibia - Two elephants feed each other at the waterhole

At the waterhole there, we see a group of zebras drinking. They are probably not bothered by the midday heat; normally, animals also hide from the sun. Around three o’clock, we pack up again and drive deeper into the park. On the way to Okaukuejo, we spot large groups of springboks, many zebras, a few giraffes crossing the road, and various birds. As sunset approaches, we enter Okaukuejo. Thomas cannot find a spot quickly, so he stops at a waterhole to let us out. In the last rays of the setting sun, we see three elephants around the waterhole. After sunset, the spectacle becomes even more beautiful. Two giraffes cautiously approach to drink but hesitate. Three rhinos wander in to drink. Springboks and jackals appear sporadically on the scene. Eventually, a female lion arrives at the waterhole. It is amazing to see three of the Big Five animals at once around the waterhole. By half past seven, it has cooled down considerably. We quickly set up the tents and have dinner. After dinner, I take a shower—a cold one!—and go to bed early after this wonderful day.